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The Runner • January 2021
Message from the Executive Director This quarter was generally focussed on LFFAs in-season support to fall Chum fisheries and then the recommencement of Delegate Forums in November onward to prepare a Post Season Report. 2020 Interior Fraser Steelhead management actions implemented by the DFO Minister made it particularly challenging for set net fisheries which required full-time attendance and daylight fisheries only. Additionally, DFO's approach to fisheries scheduling and priority access interpretation further intensified the fact that fisheries would be targeting the tail end of the Chum run. A Post Season Report was concluded by the LFFA technicians and Delegates and it is hoped that the results will provide the basis for change necessary for 2021 fisheries to achieve more FSC access. Key funding proposals were submitted to the BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund (BCSRIF) for Selective Fisheries development and AAROM Innovation and Collaboration Fund to continue our Revitalizing Indigenous Law for Land, Air and Water (RELAW) program. These opportunities are key components to supporting Nations in their quest to maintain fisheries in the Fraser mainstem and tributaries while applying Indigenous knowledge and associated traditional laws, including guardianship. These programs are also important to maintain current personnel and retain our “These investment in those staff members into the future. Government seems to be devoting time and resources to Indigenous Knowledge reviews. I have been asked to participate in interviews related to the Species at Risk Assessment (SARA) Culture Significance and Committee on the Science of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). The challenge has been to determine the scope, objective, sample size and how the information collected will be utilized by DFO, but more importantly for our First Nations. While apprehensive of the process, I believe it is important to contribute and influence the outcome of these processes to express some Lower Fraser perspectives. Some of my key priorities moving into the final quarter of the year will be to support the development of a Tier 3 Terms of Reference for the Lower Fraser Collaborative Table, which is inclusive of the LFFA and Lower Fraser Recreational and
opportunities are key components to supporting Nations in their quest to maintain fisheries in the Fraser mainstem and tributaries while applying Indigenous knowledge and associated traditional laws, including guardianship. ”
